Thousands of women strike in Glasgow equal pay walkout - and they've got a heap of support

Women of Glasgow, we stand with you.

The UK and in particular Glasgow, Scotland is playing host today to one of the biggest strikes over equal pay the country has ever seen. Around 8,000 women and supporters are marching following what they've described as a "lack of progress" on equal pay claims from thousands of female workers.

The strike has seen all mainstream primary schools, nurseries and additional support schools closed, with secondary schools remaining open, but services such as school meals affected. Home care services have also faced disruption, with cafes and cleaning services also predicted to run into problems.

Despite 21 meetings being held in the past 10 months, unions say that no progress has been made in fighting against a scheme introduced over a decade ago. That scheme is said to have led to female-dominated roles such as catering, receiving up to £3 an hour less than those in similar male-dominated roles.

Freelance journalist Eve Livingston showcased just how long this battle has been roaring on in a simple yet hugely effective tweet, which showed commemorations of women who have died waiting for their claims to be settled.

Glasgow City Council announced back in January of this year (2018) that they intended to reach a negotiated settlement over equal pay, but GMB and Unison members have this month (October, 2018) kicked off a 48-hour strike in protest.

A number of prominent voices have shown their support for those striking on social media today (October 23), including Livingston's Labour Parliamentary candidate Rhea Wolfson, and the Shadow Secretary of State for Education, Angela Rayner.

Sending my solidarity to women council workers in Glasgow who go on strike today to demand equal pay. I know how important it is when taking action to know you have support from fellow trade unionists. l want the strikers to know l fully support you all. #GlasgowWomensStrike

Scotland's feminist organisation Engender have spoken out about what they describe as an "undervaluation of women's work", stating it is "against the law", and have released a full statement online.

Cat Boyd's message of support is perhaps the perfect one to end on. Women of Glasgow and beyond, we stand with you.

No one should underestimate the power of taking part in strike action. It changes your life. Experiencing the power of unity and action means you develop a faith that the workers united can beat the bosses. #EqualPay#GlasgowWomensStrike